From Atlanta to Kashmir, States Weaponize Counterterrorism Frameworks to Target Social Justice Movements

Introduction

ABSTRACT

Across the world, governments use the same tactics to repress dissent and dismantle social justice movements. Although counterterrorism frameworks have been and are misused to target and silence such movements, this Article focuses on only a few examples to highlight the impact of such measures. As evidenced by the use of material support statutes, “Stop Cop City” in Atlanta, and the repression of human rights organizations in Palestine and Kashmir, these frameworks are used by governments to inhibit movements for social change. Although the struggles in each respective region are different, there are overarching connections that draw them together, highlighting the importance of sharing tactics of resistance across movements and borders. For this reason, this Article ends with a discussion of cross-movement and cross-border strategy sharing and stresses the importance of connecting the dots to counter state repression of social justice movements.

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